Udta Punjab is finally here and the curiosity that surrounds its release is proof that the Censor Board has done commendable PR work!
But moving away from the entire hullabaloo, director Abhishek Chaubey must be praised for making a hard hitting and engaging film on the subject of drug addiction.
Udta Punjab is one of those rare films where music is used to stunning effect. The songs, impeccably composed by Amit Trivedi, running through the veins of the script give a vociferous push to the narrative.
In fact, the film opens with Chitta Ve that introduces us to the 4 main characters –Tommy the pind da rockstar, doctor at the de-addiction centre, a police officer and an unnamed migrant labourer from Bihar. Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Diljit Dosanjh and Alia Bhatt lend the film an irresistible charm.
They melt into their characters beautifully making Udta Punjab soar high. (All those who cribbed about Alia’s bihari accent after watching the trailer – it’s time to eat the humble pie.)
The first half packs a powerful punch. However, post interval we realise that instead of the sanskaari scissors of the Censor Board, some sharp editing would have reaped better results.
At 148 minutes, Udta Punjab is a bit too long. It is teeming with memorable scenes and characters but the slackened pace dampens the desired impact.
My final verdict – go for Udta Punjab because here is a brave film that grapples with the drug menace with refreshing honestly and a determined eagerness to explore the dark realms of addiction.
Shahid has upped his game significantly and Kareena Kapoor redeems herself brilliantly.
A well deserved 4 Quints out of 5!
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